UB Faculty and Staff Union Demands Fulfillment of Funding Promises from PUP Government

The University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union (UBFSU) is calling out the People’s United Party, for what it says are unfulfilled promises. President of the Union Dr. Pio Saqui issued a statement reminding that when the PUP was in opposition they criticized the United Democratic Party (UDP) for reducing UB’s subvention by more than 24 percent, reducing funding from 11 million dollars to just over 8 million dollars. Saqui said that the PUP condemned the decision and promised to restore the subvention and even increase it over the next five year. Other promises included greater accountability, improved quality of education, and a stronger commitment to national service and development. Saqui said quote, “However, with deep frustration, the UBFSU notes the PUP’s failure to follow through on these promises. Despite the party’s strong rhetoric and stated commitments, UB continues to face significant financial challenges, and the promised increase in funding has not materialized,” end of quote. The union is demanding that the Government of Belize immediately restore the subvention and include the UBFSU in all relevant Board meetings and decisions.